Remember that warm, comforting mug of soup your grandma made when you felt under the weather? That simple warmth often came from a magical ingredient: chicken broth. Today, sipping broth straight from a mug is becoming a major wellness trend. But when you walk down the grocery aisle, the sheer volume of choices—shelf-stable, refrigerated, bone broth, stock—can feel overwhelming. Which one truly delivers that nourishing goodness we crave?
Many people want the health benefits of traditional broth—like supporting gut health or boosting immunity—but they struggle to find a clean, tasty option that doesn’t taste overly salty or artificial. Finding a broth that is both convenient for sipping and packed with real flavor is a common frustration. You shouldn’t have to read a chemistry textbook just to pick a healthy drink!
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explore exactly what makes a great drinking broth, what ingredients to watch out for, and how to easily incorporate this liquid gold into your daily routine. Get ready to transform your snack time from a guessing game into a delicious, health-boosting ritual.
Top Chicken Broth To Drink Recommendations
- One (1) 10.75 oz microwavable cup of Swanson Sipping Chicken Bone Broth
- Made by simmering a mix of chicken stock, real bones, vegetables, herbs and spices for a savory bone broth with rich, full-bodied flavor
- Crafted with 100% natural, non-GMO ingredients, Swanson sipping bone broth is a simple yet flavorful way to add collagen protein to your diet
- Each single-serve cup of chicken broth contains 10 grams of protein* and 50 calories (*Not a good source of protein)
- Convenient microwavable cups of bone broth soup make it easy to enjoy a nourishing snack on the go; simply heat then sip straight from the container
- Eight (8) 10.75 oz microwavable cups of Swanson Sipping Chicken Bone Broth
- Made by simmering a mix of chicken stock, real bones, vegetables, herbs and spices for a savory bone broth with rich, full-bodied flavor
- Crafted with 100% natural, non-GMO ingredients, Swanson sipping bone broth is a simple yet flavorful way to add collagen protein to your diet
- Each single-serve cup of chicken broth contains 10 grams of protein* and 50 calories (*Not a good source of protein)
- Convenient microwavable cups of bone broth soup make it easy to enjoy a nourishing snack on the go; simply heat then sip straight from the container
- Eight (8) 10.75 oz microwavable cups of Swanson Sipping Chicken Bone Broth With Ginger and Turmeric
- Made by simmering a mix of chicken stock, real bones, vegetables, ginger and turmeric for a rich, savory bone broth with a subtle kick
- Crafted with 100% natural, non-GMO ingredients, Swanson sipping bone broth is a simple yet flavorful way to add collagen protein to your diet
- Each single-serve cup of chicken broth contains 10 grams of protein* and 50 calories (*Not a good source of protein)
- Convenient microwavable cups of bone broth soup make it easy to enjoy a nourishing snack on the go; simply heat then sip straight from the container
- 150+ banned colors, flavors, preservatives and other ingredients often found in food
- No hydrogenated fats or high fructose corn syrup allowed in any food
- No bleached or bromated flour
- No synthetic nitrates or nitrites
- Chicken bone broth soup
- Made with organic herbs, veggies, and spice
- Naturally occurring collagen and amino acids
- Country of origin is United States
- One (1) 10.75 oz microwavable cup of Swanson Sipping Chicken Bone Broth With Ginger and Turmeric
- Made by simmering a mix of chicken stock, real bones, vegetables, ginger and turmeric for a rich, savory bone broth with a subtle kick
- Crafted with 100% natural, non-GMO ingredients, Swanson sipping bone broth is a simple yet flavorful way to add collagen protein to your diet
- Each single-serve cup of chicken broth contains 10 grams of protein* and 50 calories (*Not a good source of protein)
- Convenient microwavable cups of bone broth soup make it easy to enjoy a nourishing snack on the go; simply heat then sip straight from the container
- AROMATIC DELICIOUS FLAVOR: Enjoy the taste and benefits of bone broth in convenient stick packs with Bare Bones Instant Chicken Bone Broth. Made with real chicken bone broth, pasture-raised chicken collagen, freshly ground herbs and spices, and more. Experience the deep, rich, savory flavor of real bone broth, crafted with quality ingredients that warm you from the inside out, wherever you are.
- PREMIUM VALUABLE INGREDIENTS: Enhance your wellness routine at a cost per serving that's perfect for everyday sippers. Bare Bones powder packets contain real chicken bone broth, pasture-raised chicken collagen, prebiotic fiber (tapioca), apple cider vinegar, tomatoes, shiitake mushrooms, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and other spices to take traditional taste to the next level.
- QUALITY YOU CAN TASTE: Bare Bones is committed to providing delicious and convenient bone broth options, crafted with high-quality ingredients. Bare Bones bone broths are crafted for taste and convenience. Made with premium ingredients, our bone broth is gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, and contains no artificial flavors or MSG. Suitable for intermittent fasting, low-carb, keto, and paleo diets.
- SUPER SNACK: Each serving is packed with 10g of protein and only 50 calories, making it a perfect keto, paleo, and intermittent fasting-friendly snack. Our instant bone broth is brimming with collagen, minerals, and amino acids to promote digestive and joint health and improve skin and hair. Perfect for busy professionals on-the-go, health-conscious individuals following diets, athletes seeking a protein boost, or anyone looking for a delicious and nutritious way to stay hydrated.
- ON-THE-GO BONE BROTH PACKETS: Enjoy the taste and benefits of bone broth anytime, anywhere that you can easily mix with hot water in seconds. Simply mix one packet with hot water and stir for a delicious and nutritious drink with the same taste and consistency as homemade bone broth! Stash in your bag, lunch box, or suitcase for when you need a boost.
The Ultimate Guide to Buying Sippable Chicken Broth
Chicken broth is more than just a cooking ingredient. Many people drink it straight for comfort and health benefits. Choosing the best broth for drinking requires looking at a few key things. This guide helps you pick the perfect carton or jar.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for broth meant for sipping, certain features really matter.
1. Sodium Content
- **Low Sodium is Best:** High salt levels can hide the delicate chicken flavor. Look for options labeled “Low Sodium” or “No Salt Added.” You can always add a pinch of salt later if needed.
- **Why it Matters:** Lower sodium is better for your heart and keeps the taste clean.
2. Ingredient Transparency
- **Simple Ingredients:** The best broths list chicken, water, and basic vegetables (like carrots or onions). Avoid broths packed with artificial flavors or preservatives.
- **Natural Sources:** Check if the color comes from real vegetables or artificial coloring. Real ingredients usually mean better flavor.
3. Gelatin/Collagen Content
- **The Wiggle Test:** Good broth solidifies slightly when cold—this means it has gelatin. Gelatin comes from simmering bones and skin and is great for gut health.
- **Hot vs. Cold:** If the broth is liquid even when chilled, it likely has less beneficial collagen.
Important Materials and Sourcing
What the broth is made from greatly affects its taste and quality.
The Chicken Source
- **Pasture-Raised vs. Conventional:** Broth made from chickens that lived outdoors (pasture-raised) often tastes richer. These birds have a more natural diet.
- **Bone Broth Distinction:** True bone broth simmers bones for a very long time (12-24 hours). This process extracts maximum nutrients. Standard chicken broth simmers meat for a shorter time. Bone broth is usually thicker and more nutrient-dense.
Flavor Enhancers
- **Natural Aromatics:** Quality broths use real herbs like thyme, bay leaves, and parsley. These add depth without needing artificial boosts.
- **Avoid Yeast Extract:** Some brands use yeast extract to create a savory (umami) flavor. While safe, it often tastes manufactured.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is a spectrum. Here is what pushes broth to the top or drags it down.
Quality Boosters
- **Long Simmer Time:** The longer the bones and vegetables simmer, the deeper the flavor becomes. This releases more minerals.
- **Vinegar Use:** A small amount of apple cider vinegar is often added during simmering. This helps draw minerals out of the bones, improving the nutritional profile.
Quality Reducers
- **Excess Water:** If the first ingredient listed is water, the broth might be thin. Good broth should list chicken or bones first.
- **High Fat Content:** While some fat is fine for flavor, excessive fat floating on top can make the broth feel heavy when sipped.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the broth influences your purchase.
Sipping Straight
If you drink it like tea, focus on low sodium and excellent flavor profiles. Look for broths that are already seasoned well with herbs. These are perfect for a quick, warm snack.
Health and Wellness Boosts
For recovery or gut health, choose bone broth with the highest gelatin content. Heat it up, add a squeeze of lemon, and drink it slowly. It provides hydration and amino acids.
Quick Meal Base
If you plan to use it as a base for instant noodles or quick soups, a slightly saltier broth might work better, as other ingredients will dilute the flavor.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Sippable Chicken Broth
Q: Is drinking chicken broth healthy?
A: Yes, drinking chicken broth is generally healthy. It provides hydration, electrolytes, and collagen, which supports joints and skin.
Q: What is the difference between broth and bone broth?
A: Broth simmers meat and bones briefly for flavor. Bone broth simmers bones for a very long time (many hours) to extract maximum collagen and minerals.
Q: Should I buy store-bought or homemade broth?
A: Homemade broth tastes the freshest. However, high-quality store-bought options are excellent time-savers, especially if they list simple, clean ingredients.
Q: How much sodium is too much for sipping broth?
A: Aim for broths with 150mg of sodium or less per serving if you are watching your salt intake. Check the nutrition label carefully.
Q: Does the broth need to be refrigerated?
A: Yes, unopened cartons are shelf-stable. Once opened, you must refrigerate it, just like any other perishable food product.
Q: Can I drink chicken broth if I am on a diet?
A: Chicken broth is usually very low in calories and fat, making it a great choice for feeling full between meals without adding many calories.
Q: What flavor should I look for if I want the richest taste?
A: Look for labels that specify “Roasted Chicken” or “Bone Broth.” These usually indicate deeper, more complex flavors.
Q: Can I reheat chicken broth in the microwave?
A: Yes, you can reheat it in the microwave. However, heating it slowly on the stovetop often preserves the flavor better.
Q: Are there vegetarian alternatives to chicken broth?
A: Yes, vegetable broth is widely available. It offers similar hydration benefits but lacks the collagen found in animal-based broths.
Q: What does it mean if the broth has fat on top?
A: That fat is natural. If you prefer less fat, chill the broth completely. The fat will solidify on top, and you can easily spoon it off before reheating.